The 10-inch Siege Mortar Model 1841 was a massive, short-barreled muzzle-loading artillery piece used by the U.S. Army during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. Unlike traditional cannons meant for flat-trajectory fire, this weapon fired heavy explosive shells in a high, plunging arc to destroy buildings and terrorize troops inside enemy fortifications.

Key Specifications & Features
Weight of Mortar: 1,720 lbs (barrel only)
Weight of Mortar Bed: 1,600 to 1,700 lbs (heavy cast-iron or wooden platform)
Projectile: Fired an 88 lb explosive shell
Range: Capable of lobbing its shell up to 2,064 yd (roughly 1.1 miles)
Operation: Because of its immense weight and recoil, the mortar was primarily stationary. It sat on a heavy wooden or iron chassis (called a bed) that allowed it to be elevated up to 60 degrees.